Construction Cost Calculator
Accurate estimates for stores and restaurants
Project Summary
No cost data yet
Add costs to see distribution
Trade Sections
Features
Everything you need to plan your construction project
Accurate Estimates
Get precise cost estimates for your construction projects with our detailed calculator.
Visual Breakdown
See visual representations of your cost distribution to better understand your budget allocation.
Save Projects
Save your estimates locally and retrieve them whenever you need to review or modify them.
Export Estimates
Export your estimates in JSON format to share with stakeholders or import into other tools.
Customizable
Customize trade sections and cost items to match your specific project requirements.
Responsive Design
Use on any device - desktop, tablet, or mobile - with our responsive design.
Multilingual
Switch between English and French to use the calculator in your preferred language.
How To Use
Simple steps to get accurate construction cost estimates
Enter Project Details
Start by entering your project name, selecting the project type (store, restaurant, or other), and specifying the square footage.
Add Cost Items
Fill in the costs for the various trade sections. Each section contains common cost items relevant to commercial construction projects.
Customize Sections
Add custom sections or cost items as needed for your specific project requirements. You can also add notes to any cost item.
Review Summary
Check the project summary to see your total cost, cost per square foot, and a visual breakdown of your costs by trade section.
Save & Export
Save your project locally for future reference or export it to share with contractors, clients, or other stakeholders.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is the construction cost calculator?
Our construction cost calculator provides highly accurate estimates based on industry standards. However, actual costs may vary depending on location, materials availability, and market conditions. We recommend using the calculator as a starting point and consulting with contractors for final quotes.
Can I save my construction cost estimates for later reference?
Yes, the calculator allows you to save your project estimates for future reference. Simply click the 'Save' button once you've completed your estimate. You can also export your estimate as a JSON file for sharing with contractors or stakeholders.
How is the cost per square foot calculated?
The cost per square foot is calculated by dividing the total project cost by the total square footage of your project. This provides a standardized metric to compare construction costs across different project types and sizes.
What trade sections are included in the calculator?
Our calculator includes comprehensive trade sections such as Demolition, Structural Work, Mechanical/Electrical/Plumbing, Finishes, Specialties, Equipment, Exterior work, and Professional Services. You can also add custom sections as needed for your specific project.
Is the calculator suitable for both commercial and residential projects?
While our calculator is primarily designed for commercial projects like stores and restaurants, you can adapt it for residential use. However, residential projects may have different cost factors, so we recommend adjusting your estimates accordingly.
How should I determine the square footage of my construction project?
For accurate estimates, measure the total area where construction work will take place. For new buildings, use the total floor area; for renovations, only include areas being modified. Always include all floors if working on a multi-story building.
Can I add custom cost items that aren't in the default sections?
Absolutely! Our calculator is fully customizable. You can add new sections and create custom cost items within each section to match your specific project requirements. This ensures your estimate captures all relevant expenses.
How often should I update my construction cost estimate?
We recommend reviewing and updating your estimate at key project milestones: during initial planning, after finalizing designs, when receiving contractor bids, and if there are significant scope changes. Construction material prices can fluctuate, so periodic updates ensure accuracy.
Does the calculator account for regional cost differences?
The calculator provides baseline estimates that you can adjust for your region. Construction costs vary significantly by location due to differences in labor rates, material availability, and local building codes. Consider applying a regional adjustment factor to your final estimate.
What should I include in the 'Professional Services' section?
The Professional Services section should include costs for architects, engineers, project managers, permits, inspections, legal fees, and any consultants required for your project. These services typically account for 10-15% of total construction costs for commercial projects.